A school on the outskirts of Galicia. The private gimnazjum in Borshchiv 1909–1914

The secondary school (gimnazjum) in the town of Borshchiv (Borszczów) was established in 1909. An important figure who took part in its creation was Count Tadeusz Czarkowski-Golejewski. Though the school had existed for a short period before the First World War, it utilized interesting educational solutions based on student autonomy, relationship with the parents and combining intellectual and physical effort. In the local community the school gave the incentive to develop regionalism. Due to a large number of auditors taking part in the lessons, and evening courses for girls, elements of co-education were introduced in the provinces. Co-operation with branches of the “Falcon” Polish Gymnastic Society as well as involvement of local medical community made it possible to popularize physical education and provide medical and hygienic supervision to a large group of young people. The pedagogical offer of the school was above all directed to Polish people from the town and its vicinity, which was evident in the changing ethnic and religious structures.

Keywords: Borshchiv (Borszczów), education, Galicia, secondary school (gimnazjum)

The secondary school (gimnazjum) in the town of Borshchiv (Borszczów) was established in 1909. An important figure who took part in its creation was Count Tadeusz Czarkowski-Golejewski. Though the school had existed for a short period before the First World War, it utilized interesting educational solutions based on student autonomy, relationship with the parents and combining intellectual and physical effort. In the local community the school gave the incentive to develop regionalism. Due to a large number of auditors taking part in the lessons, and evening courses for girls, elements of co-education were introduced in the provinces. Co-operation with branches of the “Falcon” Polish Gymnastic Society as well as involvement of local medical community made it possible to popularize physical education and provide medical and hygienic supervision to a large group of young people. The pedagogical offer of the school was above all directed to Polish people from the town and its vicinity, which was evident in the changing ethnic and religious structures.